Viator Rating : 5 (759 reviews)
Hanoi
Ninh Binh Day Trip: Caves, Temples & Views from Hanoi!
Overview
The Ninh Binh Day Trip from Hanoi with Tam Coc or Trang An & Mua Cave offers a convenient way to see the beautiful countryside near Hanoi. In just 2.5 hours, travelers can journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, known for its rich culture and stunning landscapes. This full-day bus tour explores key attractions like Hoa Lu, Tam Coc/Trang An, and Mua Cave (Lying Dragon Mountain), offering a mix of history, boat rides, and panoramic views.
Visitors will experience a boat trip through the scenic caves and rice paddies of Tam Coc or Trang An. A climb to the top of Mua Cave's Dragon Mountain provides rewarding panoramic views. The tour includes visits to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, showcasing Vietnam's historical significance. A delicious local buffet lunch is also provided.
This well-rounded tour includes round-trip shuttle bus transfers with A/C from Hanoi's Old Quarter, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, a boat trip, and bikes for a short ride. The tour ensures a comfortable and engaging experience, with a warning about local vendors seeking tips and guidance on bike usage. If the Bai Dinh Pagoda route is selected, an electric buggy from the ticket counter to the entrance is provided. This tour promises a memorable day exploring Ninh Binh's beauty and culture. 
Highlights
Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Discover Vietnam's history at the site of the ancient capital.
Boat Ride Through Tam Coc or Trang An: Enjoy a peaceful boat trip through caves and rice paddies.
Climb Mua Cave (Lying Dragon Mountain): See amazing views of Ninh Binh from the top.
Delicious Local Buffet Lunch: Taste the flavors of Ninh Binh with a yummy lunch.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the stunning scenery and boat rides.
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The tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly.
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Many enjoyed the climb to Mua Cave for the panoramic views.
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The buffet lunch was a great way to taste local food.
Some visitors found the bike ride unsuitable for their abilities.
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A few encountered persistent vendors asking for tips.
The Journey
Hanoi
Begin your adventure in Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam. Immerse yourself in the city's bustling streets, sample delicious street food, and explore historical sites such as the Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter. Hanoi serves as the perfect starting point for your exploration of Northern Vietnam, blending urban energy with cultural charm.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Step back in time at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010. Explore the remnants of this historic site, including temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and Emperor Le Dai Hanh. Discover the significance of Hoa Lu during the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties, and learn about Vietnam's feudal history in this captivating historical setting.
Bai Dinh Pagoda
Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest pagoda complexes in Southeast Asia. Marvel at its impressive scale and intricate architecture, featuring numerous halls, courtyards, and towering statues. Explore the complex's many records, including the 500 Stone Arhat Statues, the 36-ton bronze Bell, and the colossal 100-ton Buddha Statue, immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and artistic grandeur of this remarkable site.
Tam Coc
Experience the enchanting beauty of Tam Coc, known as "Halong Bay on land." Glide along the Ngo Dong River in a traditional bamboo boat, passing through stunning limestone karsts, lush rice paddies, and captivating cave systems. Be mesmerized by the harmony of nature as you witness the picturesque scenery of water, sky, and mountains merging into a breathtaking masterpiece.
Trang An
Embark on a mesmerizing boat tour through Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Navigate through a network of interconnected caves and waterways, surrounded by towering limestone mountains and verdant landscapes. Discover the stunning stalactites and stalagmites within the grottoes, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of this extraordinary destination.
Mua Cave (Lying Dragon Mountain)
Challenge yourself with a climb up nearly 500 steps to reach the summit of Mua Cave, also known as Lying Dragon Mountain. Be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Tam Coc's stunning landscape from above. Capture the beauty of the surrounding rice fields, winding rivers, and towering limestone karsts, creating unforgettable memories of your journey through Ninh Binh.
Hanoi (Return)
Journey back to Hanoi, reflecting on the incredible experiences and memories created during your Ninh Binh adventure. Relax on the comfortable bus ride as you travel through the Vietnamese countryside, arriving back in Hanoi to conclude your unforgettable exploration of this remarkable region.
Know Before You Go
This day trip includes entrance fees to Hoa Lu, Tam Coc/Trang An, and Mua Cave, along with an English-speaking guide and a boat trip. Round-trip shuttle bus transfers with A/C are provided from Hanoi's Old Quarter. A local buffet lunch and a small bottle of water are included. This tour excludes beverages, drinks, and gratitudes. Please confirm pickup information in advance. Be aware that locals may ask for tips at Tam Coc, and exercise caution during the bike ride. If you choose the route with Bai Dinh Pagoda, an electric buggy from the ticket counter to the entrance is included
Hot Tip
Bring comfortable shoes for walking and climbing Mua Cave. Also, be prepared for locals selling souvenirs and asking for tips, especially around Tam Coc.
Review Summary
People find this experience exceptional for experiencing authentic northern Vietnam's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Travelers consistently praise the stunning limestone karst landscapes, the peaceful boat ride through Tam Coc's caves, the panoramic views from Mua Cave's summit, and the convenient all-inclusive package that eliminates planning hassles. The knowledgeable guides, authentic Vietnamese lunch, and comfortable transportation are frequently highlighted as strengths. Common positive points include the UNESCO World Heritage Sites visited, the variety of activities (boating, biking, hiking), and excellent value for money. Some travelers note that the tour is moderately physically demanding due to the Mua Cave climb and advise bringing proper footwear and sun protection. A few mention that morning departures are early, so travelers should be prepared for an early start. Overall, visitors overwhelmingly recommend this tour as a must-do day trip from Hanoi for its perfect balance of nature, history, and authentic local experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
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